IT Infrastructure Support & Services For Small And Medium Businesses

In today’s digital age, a robust IT infrastructure plays a crucial and multifaceted role for businesses. It not only facilitates convenient and secure communication with both colleagues and clients, but also enables cost-effective calls through VoIP; provides access to the internet and its vast resources, from cloud-based software to your company’s own VPN; and ensures real-time backup of critical data assets. Given the significant demands placed on business IT infrastructure, every organisation requires a capable IT service provider to assist with the optimal management of their networks.

What Is The Role Of IT Infrastructure?

IT infrastructure management encompasses various forms, but primarily, the two key distinctions are hardware and software management. A discerning business will recognise that these two are intrinsically linked, and ideally, the same IT service provider should manage both aspects. This streamlines the process of conducting routine network audits to assess network health, as well as ensuring the consistent functionality of all computer systems and networks.

For instance, contemporary optimal network cabling often involves fibre optic solutions, and there’s a necessary speed threshold that businesses require as their usage scales according to the tasks being performed and the number of users involved. If your operations involve in-depth, data-intensive processes demanding a reliable and consistent internet connection, then you’ll necessitate higher internet speeds and more robust hardware.

The IT infrastructure is there to make your digital-facing operations run as smoothly as possible.

What Are The 3 Primary Components Of A Good IT Infrastructure?

Hardware

Hardware encompasses the fundamental components of the system. This includes the cabling and computer components that constitute the network, servers, and other means of accessing virtual assets. Modifying hardware is not a straightforward process and necessitates considerable maintenance and supervision.

Software

Software represents the virtual aspect of the network. It’s experienced and interacted with through hardware, primarily plug-and-play peripherals such as a mouse or keyboard. Software is arguably the most adaptable element of an IT infrastructure, as it can be modified at any point, often with minimal notice. Upgrades can be implemented just as swiftly, or the system can be rolled back to a previous iteration. Software can be integrated across various platforms and even be completely removed if required.

Humans

This is a frequently overlooked aspect of an IT infrastructure, as it may not appear directly connected to its functionality. However, it is indeed crucial. Individuals require proper training on how to utilise the resources available to them. Without adequate understanding and skills, business objectives can be significantly hindered, operational processes may stall, and valuable time and resources can be lost.

Common Services Linked to IT Infrastructure Management

• Network services (assessment & planning, network management, performance monitoring, capacity planning, cable plant)
• Network security audits and planning
• Desktop support and systems management
• Website and email management services
• Server administration
• Help Desk operations, audits, and outsourcing support
• Technology research, acquisition, and transformation (IPV6, HSPD-12, virtual operating systems, virtual private networks (VPNs), hardware consolidation, etc.)
• Implementation of policies and processes (ITIL certified and compliant)
• Interoperability
• Continuity of operations planning
• Network documentation